apple pie - input needed!

[dishingthedivine]

I have a food blog that I started about 18 months ago. I've seen my photography skills grow by leaps and bounds since I started it. Now I look back at the older photos and cringe. Lately I've started posting my photos on foodgawker and tastespotting and was surprised that this photo was declined. Could someone tell me why? Brutal honesty is fine. After all, I was already rejected.



Model = Canon EOS DIGITAL REBEL XSi
Exposure Time = 1/160"
F Number = F7.1
Exposure Program = Manual
ISO Speed Ratings = 200
Exposure Bias Value = ±0EV
Flash = Flash fired, compulsory flash mode

Thanks so much!

-Paula

[Photologyst]

Hmmm

Well, Paula speaking as a foodie, who cooks a lot, has over 300 cookbooks and reads food blogs, etc., the pie does not look mouth watering to me. It looks a bit dry and the apples are pale. The angle might be an issue too. Straight on is rarely flattering. The fork looks like a weapon, rather than an eating utensil. It is also at the wrong angle for eating—if that matters to anyone.

Here is an image that is more inviting: http://www.blogcdn.com/www.slashfood...with-cream.jpg

Self disclosure: I don’t really like pies—more of a tart person. So, they have to look food-stylist fabulous before I will even consider looking at the recipe.

[cristen]

i was a bit taken aback by the sheer "close up" that i felt the pie is being forcibly shoved into my mouth instead of tempting me to take a bite.

[dishingthedivine]

thanks for your input! My husband would LOVE for me to bake another pie. I'll try this again with a side angle view (instead of head on) and back a bit.

Part of the problem is I like to fill my frame, which then makes cropping to a square rather difficult to plan for. If you have any suggestions on that, I'd LOVE to hear them.

-Paula